Twitterpated Season

Spring has sprung in the world of nature. This past weekend brought out at least one Jefferson Salamander looking for love in the still frozen over vernal pool. Up in Ridegbury, the red- shouldered hawk cries are heard resonating out of the woods. Back on the New York State line is the nest that has produced a string of these marvelous birds. This winter when the snow was very deep, one hung out at my birdfeeder. These big birds learn early that silence is best while they search for prey. But this time of year, their thoughts turn to other needs and they become quite vocal. Sometimes their courtship takes on such a ruckus that even the crows that love to mob them stay away. Their call is quite distinctive. Listen for yourself - http://www.naturesongs.com/rsha1.wav (cut and paste into your search engine. Photo by Cary Maures - Red Shouldered Hawk #16